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alternatives to coffee

Many of us can't function in the morning until we've had a cup (or three) of coffee, but did you know that there are many natural alternatives that will leave you feel just as alert and energised?

Caffeine is a great quick fix, and one most of us have in our kitchen cupboard, but with a little extra planning next time you hit the shops, you could boost your body's energy levels in a far more beneficial way.

Here are three natural energisers to try in place of your morning coffee…

1. Spirulina
This blue-green algae is as powerful as any energy drink on the market, and will leave you feeling more alert and focused all morning long. It's also full of protein, B vitamins, iron, beta carotene and antioxidants. Spirulina comes in powder or capsule form, and while the powder is absorbed faster into the bloodstream, it does have a distinctive seawater taste that mightn't be too appetising first thing.

If you are brave enough to go for the powder, mix a couple of tablespoons into a fruit smoothie to mask the taste. As for the tablets, the recommended dosage is 3 – 6 tablets daily, but start with one a day and build it up.

 

2. Maca Root
Maca is a root from the Peruvian Andes, which grows as a tuber (like a potato) but is exported in powdered form. It is rich in energising B vitamins and also helps to regulate unbalanced hormone levels.

Maca's light, nutty flavour makes it perfect for stirring through soups, adding to herbal tea, or even mixing with honey and using as a spread. Start with half a teaspoon a day and work towards 1 – 2 teaspoons.

 

3. Matcha
This powdered green tea has been used in Japan for centuries but has only gained popularity in the western world over the last few years. Matcha tea and matcha lattes are the latest on-trend replacement for caffeine, so you can easily order them at most larger coffee shops if you don't fancy using matcha at home.

Compared to coffee, matcha provides longer lasting energy rather than one intense hit.  To make it yourself, mix a teaspoon of matcha with hot water or steamed milk.

 

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Ah, caffeine. Truly the best friend of anyone who hates mornings.

Is there anything better than a steaming mug of coffee or milky tea to get the day started off on the right foot? Yes, it turns out. Although many of us rely on our morning cuppa to get us going, excess caffeine can actually work against you. High levels of caffeine can cause increased heart rate and stress, while the blood sugar crash later in the day will only make you more tired. Not ideal.

Here are some other energy-boosting options to try in the mornings:

1. Peppermint tea
Peppermint tea contains no caffeine – so it will leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated without any jitters. This minty tea also aids digestion so it’s a great option if you’re feeling cramped, bloated or sluggish.

2. Ginger and honey tea
Ginger is a great immune-boosting ingredient and its zingy flavour will wake you up instantly. Honey will tone down the ginger’s strong flavour, making a nice sweet tea. Make your own by slicing some fresh ginger and placing it in a cup of hot water with a half-spoon of honey, or buy the pre-made teabags.

3. Smoothie
Smoothies are a great option if you have a little extra time in the morning. Using banana and yoghurt as a base, add citrus fruits and berries for an extra wake-me-up kick. Alternatively, go for a nutrient hit with a green smoothie containing superfoods like spinach and kale alongside fruits.

4. Green tea
This does contain caffeine but generally less than black tea, and far less than coffee. If you’re not a fan of the earthy taste, add some lemon juice or honey or try flavoured green tea. Green tea boosts your metabolic rate, which not only helps your body to kick off the day, but is also an advantage if you’re trying to lose weight.

5. Lemon and water
This might be a simple option but it will definitely give you that extra push to get going in the mornings. Simply pop a slice of lemon into some ice water, or for an extra zing, grate some lemon zest in there too.

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